Air handler blower and method of oerating the same

ABSTRACT

An air handler blower is provided, comprising: a blower wheel having a center plate with one or more openings, a first cylindrical blade assembly extending from a first side of the center plate, the first cylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality of first blades extending from the first side of the center plate and arranged in a circle to define a first cavity, and a second cylindrical blade assembly extending from a second side of the center plate opposite the first side, the second cylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality of second blades extending from the second side of the center plate and arranged in a circle to define a second cavity; a motor located proximate to the first cylindrical blade assembly and configured to rotate the blower wheel; and an axle connecting the motor and the center plate.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosed devices and methods relate generally to an air handlerblower and a method of operating the same. More particularly, thedisclosed devices and methods relate to an air handler blower that canequalize air flow on both a side accommodating a motor and a side notaccommodating a motor.

BACKGROUND

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operates bydrawing input air in from an area to be heated or cooled, conditioningthe air (i.e., heating or cooling it), and blowing the conditionedoutput air back into the area to be heated or cooled. In many systems anair handler blower is used to draw in the input air. Such an air handlerblower includes a hollow cylindrical blower wheel made up of multipleblades arranged around the periphery of the cylinder. A motor rotatesthe blower wheel so that air is drawn through openings on the circularends of the blower wheel into the blower wheel's hollow center. The airis then blown out the sides of the blower wheel by the blades as theblower wheel rotates. This air is then directed as needed forconditioning.

For structural reasons, a center plate can be formed inside the hollowcenter of the blower wheel. The center plate is a structural elementthat bisects the hollow center into first and second hollow portions.The first hollow portion (or first cavity) has air drawn in from anopening on a first side of the blower wheel, and second hollow portion(or second cavity) has air drawn in from an opening on a second side ofthe blower wheel. A first portion of the blades adjacent to the firsthollow portion draws air from the first hollow portion and blows it outalong the side of the blower wheel; and a second portion of the bladesadjacent to the second hollow portion draws air from the second hollowportion and blows it out along the side of the blower wheel. The centerplate provides an element that intersects a center line of the blowerwheel and allows the motor to more easily rotate the blower wheel.

In order to keep the air handler blower compact, the motor that rotatesthe blower wheel is often arranged proximate to one side of the blowerwheel. In many air handler blowers this means that the motor willpartially obscure either the opening into the first hollow portion orthe opening into the second hollow portioning. Because of thisobstruction in one of the openings, the flow of air into the hollowportion whose opening is obscured may be restricted. This can lead toless air passing through that hollow portion of the blower wheel,thereby restricting the air passing through the entire air handlerblower and reducing the operating efficiency of the air handler blower.

It would therefore be desirable to provide an air handler blower thatcan equalize air flow between two sides of a bisected blower wheel,regardless of how the air handler blower is arranged.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one or more embodiments, an air handler blower is provided,comprising: a blower wheel having a center plate having one or morecenter openings, a first cylindrical blade assembly extending from afirst side of the center plate, the first cylindrical blade assemblycontaining a plurality of first blades extending from the first side ofthe center plate and arranged in a circle to define a first cavity, theplurality of first blades each attached by a first end to the first sideof the center plate, and a second cylindrical blade assembly extendingfrom a second side of the center plate opposite the first side, thesecond cylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality of secondblades extending from the second side of the center plate and arrangedin a circle to define a second cavity, the plurality of second bladeseach attached by a first end to the second side of the center plate; amotor located proximate to the first cylindrical blade assembly andconfigured to rotate the blower wheel; and an axle connecting the motorand the center plate.

The first cylindrical blade assembly may further include a firstcircular blower wheel rim attached to respective second ends of each ofthe plurality of first blades and defining a second blower opening, andthe second cylindrical blade assembly may further include a secondcircular blower wheel rim attached to respective second ends of each ofthe plurality of second blades and defining a second blower opening.

The first blade cylinder may have a first width extending from the firstside of the center plate, the second blade cylinder may have a secondwidth extending from the second side of the center plate, and the firstwidth may be substantially equal to the second width.

The air handler blower may further comprise a connector configured tosecure the axle to the center plate, wherein the center plate includesan axle hole configured to accommodate the axle.

The plurality of first blades may be arranged such that the firstcylindrical blade assembly will draw first intake air into the firstcavity and generate first exhaust air at an outer circumference of thefirst cylindrical blade assembly when the blower wheel is rotated, andthe plurality of second blades may be arranged such that the secondcylindrical blade assembly will draw second intake air into the secondcavity and generate second exhaust air at an outer circumference of thesecond cylindrical blade assembly when the blower wheel is rotated.

The motor partly may obscure the first blower opening.

The center plate may further include one or more air movers configuredto draw air from the second cavity into the first cavity.

The air movers may include one of an air scoop, a louver, a fixed blade,or an adjustable blade.

The air movers may protrude into the second cavity; or the air moversmay protrude into the first cavity.

The center plate may further include one or more third blades configuredto draw air from the second cavity into the first cavity, each of theone or more third blades being associated with a corresponding one ofthe center openings, and the one or more third blades may be noncoplanarwith respect to the center plate.

Each of the center openings may have a corresponding innercircumference, each of the one or more third blades may have asubstantially same shape as a corresponding one of the center openings,and each of the one or more third blades may be connected to a portionof the circumference of a corresponding one of the center openings.

The openings may be substantially triangular; or the openings may besubstantially circular.

The center plate may further include an outer plate having an inneropening with a first circumference, an inner plate having a secondcircumference formed in the inner opening, and a plurality of spokesconnecting the outer plate to the inner plate, wherein the secondcircumference is smaller than the first circumference, and the one ormore openings include a main opening between the first circumference andthe second circumference.

The air handler blower may further comprise an outer casing surroundingthe blower wheel and containing an exhaust opening, the outer casingbeing configured to combine the first and second exhaust air intocombined exhaust air and to expel the combined exhaust air through theexhaust opening.

A heating, ventilation and air-conditioning device may also be providedcomprising the air handler blower described above, and anair-conditioner configured to condition the combined exhaust air.

The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning device may furthercomprise an outer casing surrounding the air handler blower, the outercasing having an intake opening configured to draw in outside air,wherein the intake opening is located adjacent to a side of the blowerwheel.

The heating, ventilation and air-conditioning device may furthercomprise an outer casing surrounding the air handler blower, the outercasing having a first intake opening configured to draw in first outsideair and a second intake opening configured to draw in second outsideair, wherein the first intake opening is located adjacent to the firstcavity, and wherein the second intake opening is located adjacent to thesecond cavity.

An air handler blower is provided, comprising: a blower wheel having acenter plate having one or more center openings, and one or more airmovement mechanisms configured to draw air from the second cavity intothe first cavity, a first cylindrical blade assembly extending from afirst side of the center plate, the first cylindrical blade assemblycontaining a plurality of first blades extending from the first side ofthe center plate and arranged in a circle to define a first cavity, theplurality of first blades each attached by a first end to the first sideof the center plate, and a second cylindrical blade assembly extendingfrom a second side of the center plate opposite the first side, thesecond cylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality of secondblades extending from the second side of the center plate and arrangedin a circle to define a second cavity, the plurality of second bladeseach attached by a first end to the second side of the center plate; amotor located proximate to the first cylindrical blade assembly andconfigured to rotate the blower wheel; and an axle connecting the motorand the center plate.

The air movement mechanisms may include one of an air scoop, a louver, afixed blade, or an adjustable blade.

The air movement mechanisms may protrude into the second cavity; or theair movement mechanisms may protrude into the first cavity.

The air movement mechanisms may include one or more third bladesconfigured to draw air from the second cavity into the first cavity,each of the one or more third blades being associated with acorresponding one of the center openings, the one or more third bladesmay be noncoplanar with respect to the center plate.

A method is provided of operating an air handler blower having a blowerwheel with a center plate a first cylindrical blade assembly attached toa first side of the center plate, and a second cylindrical bladeassembly attached to a first side of the center plate, comprising:rotating the blower wheel; drawing first intake air into a first cavitydefined by the first cylindrical blade assembly at a first air pressure;drawing second intake air into a second cavity defined by the secondcylindrical blade assembly at a second air pressure greater than thefirst air pressure; passing a portion of the second intake air from thesecond cavity to the first cavity through openings in the center plateto create second reduced intake air in the second cavity and firstincreased intake air in the first cavity; moving the first increasedintake air from the first cavity to an outer circumference of the firstcylindrical blade assembly as first exhaust air; moving the seconddecreased intake air from the second cavity to an outer circumference ofthe second cylindrical blade assembly as second exhaust air; andcombining the first exhaust air and the second exhaust air to formcombined exhaust air.

The passing of the portion of the second intake air from the firstcavity to the second cavity through openings in the center plate may beperformed at least in part by equalizing the first pressure and thesecond pressure.

The passing of the portion of the second intake air from the firstcavity to the second cavity through openings in the center plate may beperformed at least in part by forcing a portion of the second intake airfrom the second cavity into the first cavity using one or more airmovers attached to the center plate.

The air movers may include one of an air scoop, a louver, a fixed blade,or an adjustable blade.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements and which together with thedetailed description below are incorporated in and form part of thespecification, serve to further illustrate an exemplary embodiment andto explain various principles and advantages in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an air handler blower from a first side accordingto disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the air handler blower of FIG. 1 from a secondside opposite the first side according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air handler blower in an airhandler with a single bottom air intake opening according to disclosedembodiments;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air handler blower of FIG. 3along line IV-IV′ according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air handler blower of FIG. 3along line V-V′ according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the blower wheel of the air handlerblower of FIG. 3 according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air handler blower in an airhandler with two side air intake openings according to disclosedembodiments;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a center plate in a blower wheel havingmultiple triangular openings according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the center plate of FIG. 8 along the lineIX-IX′ according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a center plate in a blower wheel havingmultiple circular openings according to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a center plate structure in a blower wheelhaving first and second center plates connected by spokes according todisclosed embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a center plate in a blower wheel havingmultiple triangular openings and blades formed adjacent to each openingaccording to disclosed embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a side view of the center plate of FIG. 12 along lineXII-XII′ in which the blades are each arranged to push air through anassociated center opening when the center plate rotates according todisclosed embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the center plate of FIG. 12 along lineXII-XII′ in which the blades are arranged to create an area of increasednegative air pressure what will draw air through an associated centeropening when the center plate rotates according to disclosedembodiments; and

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the operation of an air handler bloweraccording to disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Introduction

In overview, the present disclosure concerns an air handler blower witha cylindrical blower wheel that draws in input air through two sides andblows the input air as output air through blades on the sides of theblower wheel. A motor that operates to rotate the blower wheel isarranged such that it partially obscures one side of the blower wheel.

The blower wheel includes a hollow portion defined by a series of bladesarranged in a circle. The hollow portion is bisected by a center platethat is attached to the motor by an axle and is used to rotate theblower wheel. The center plate divides the hollow portion into a firstcavity on the side with the motor and a second cavity on the sidewithout the motor. The center plate has at least one opening in it toallow air to pass between the first and second cavities. The one or moreopenings may also include air movement mechanisms (air movers) thatassist in the movement of air between the first and second cavities.

More particularly, various inventive concepts and principles areembodiments in systems, devices, and methods therein which provide anair handler blower that solves a problem of unequal air flows betweenthe two sides of the blower wheel. Furthermore, the disclosed airhandler blower will equalize air flow between the two sides of theblower wheel in a variety of configurations and placements of the airhandler blower.

The instant disclosure is provided to further explain in an enablingfashion the best modes of performing one or more embodiments. Thedisclosure is further offered to enhance an understanding andappreciation for the inventive principles and advantages thereof, ratherthan to limit in any manner the embodiments.

It is further understood that the use of relational terms, such as firstand second, if any, are used to distinguish one from another entity,item, or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actualsuch relationship or order between such entities, items or actions. Someembodiments may include a plurality of processes or steps, which can beperformed in any order unless expressly and necessarily limited to aparticular order (i.e., processes or steps that are not so limited maybe performed in any order).

As further discussed below, various inventive principles andcombinations thereof are advantageously employed to provide an airhandler blower which is adapted for mounting to an air handler such as afurnace or an air-conditioner.

Air Handler Blower

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an air handler blower 100 from a first sideaccording to disclosed embodiments. FIG. 2 is a diagram of the airhandler blower 100 of FIG. 1 from a second side opposite the first sideaccording to disclosed embodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the air handler blower 100 includes an outercasing 110, a blower wheel 120, a first blower intake opening 130, asecond blower intake opening 135, a motor 140, an axle 150, an exhaustopening 160, and a securing mechanism 170.

The outer casing 110 is a structure formed around the blower wheel 120that serves to protect the blower wheel 120 and to restrict the movementof air that is circulated by the air handler blower 100. In variousembodiments the outer casing 110 can be made of metal, plastic, or anysimilar suitable material.

The blower wheel 120 is a cylindrical structure formed of a plurality ofblades arranged in a circle to create a hollow portion between theblades. The blades are arranged such that there is space in between eachblade and that when the blower wheel 120 is rotated along its centeraxis, the blades will draw air from the hollow portion and expel it outthe sides of the blower wheel 120.

Although not shown, the blower wheel 120 may have a center plate thatseparates the hollow portion between the blades into a first cavity anda second cavity. The center plate passes through the center axis of theblower wheel 120. In some embodiments, the center plate is located inthe middle of the blower wheel 120, bisecting the hollow portion betweenthe blades equally into a first cavity and a second cavity. In otherembodiments, the center plate is located closer to one and of the blowerwheel 120, such that the first cavity and the second cavity are unequalin size.

In some embodiments, the blades that make up the blower wheel 120 may besingle blades that extend from one end of the blower wheel 120 to theother. In other embodiments, the blades may be a series of smallerblades that each extend from the center plate to either end of theblower wheel 120. Other configurations are possible that provide aplurality of blades to draw air out of the first and second cavities tothe periphery of the blower wheel 120.

The first blower intake opening 130 is located on a first side of theblower wheel 120 and opens into the first cavity between the blades inthe blower wheel 120. The first blower intake opening 130 is providedsuch that when the blower wheel 120 is rotating, the movement of airfrom the first cavity through the blades to the periphery of the blowerwheel 120 will draw air into the first cavity through the first blowerintake opening 130.

The second blower intake opening 135 is located on a second side of theblower wheel 120 opposite the first side and opens into the secondcavity between the blades in the blower wheel 120. The second blowerintake opening 135 is provided such that when the blower wheel 120 isrotating, the movement of air from the second cavity through the bladesto the periphery of the blower wheel 120 will draw air into the secondcavity through the second blower intake opening 135.

The motor 140 operates to rotate the axle 150, which is connected to theblower wheel 120, and thereby rotate the blower wheel 120. The motor 140is located partially in the first blower intake opening 130 such that itpartially obscures the first blower intake opening 130. Air being drawninto the first cavity must pass by the motor 140. As a result, thepassage of air through the first blower intake opening 130 into thefirst cavity will be restricted compared to the passage of air throughthe second blower intake opening 135 into the second cavity.

The axle 150 is connected between the motor 140 and the center plate(not shown) of the blower wheel 120. The motor 140 operates to rotatethe axle 150 and thereby rotate the blower wheel 120. The axle 150extends along the centerline of the blower wheel 120 between the motor140 and the center plate and is connected to the middle of the centerplate. Thus, when the axle 150 is rotated by the motor 140 it causes thecenter plate to rotate and with it the entire blower wheel 120.

The exhaust opening 160 is an opening in the outer casing 110 that isused to direct the air blown by the blower wheel 120. Specifically, asair is drawn into the first and second cavities in the blower wheel 120through the first and second blower intake openings 130, 135, throughthe blades, and out to a periphery of the blower wheel 120, the air willbe directed by the outer casing 110 such that it is a blown out theexhaust opening 160. The exhaust opening 160 can then be connected to aportion of the air handler which is intended to receive and process airto be conditioned.

The securing mechanism 170 is a part of the air handler blower 100 thatallows the air handler blower 100 to be secured to another part of anair handler. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the securing mechanism170 is shown as being two legs connected to a bottom portion of theouter casing 110. However, this is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments can include any suitable securing mechanism to secure theair handler blower 100 to another part of the air handler. Suchvariation may be necessary in different embodiments as different airhandlers may position the air handler blower 100 in different places andconfigurations.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an air handler blower 301 in an airhandler 300 with a single bottom air intake opening 308 according todisclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3, air handler 300 includes theair handler blower 301, an air intake chamber 303, and an outflowchamber 306. The air handler blower 301 includes an exhaust vent 310, ablower wheel 120, a motor 140, an axle 150, and an axle securingmechanism (i.e., a connector) 339. The blower wheel 120 includes a firstblower side 320, a second blower side 325, and a center plate 330. Thefirst blower side 320 includes a plurality of first blower blades 340and a first blower wheel rim 350. The second blower side 325 includes aplurality of second blower blades 345 and a second blower wheel rim 355.The center plate 330 includes an axle hole 333 and one or more centeropenings 336.

The air handler blower 301 operates in a manner similar to the airhandler blower 100 from FIGS. 1 and 2. Specifically, it operates to drawair into the first and second cavities 360, 365 through openings definedby the first and second blower wheel rims 350, 355, respectively byrotating the blower wheel 120. The air drawn in to the first and secondcavities 360, 365 will then be blown out between gaps in the first andsecond blower blades 340, 345 to a periphery of the blower wheel 120.

The air intake chamber 303 is a portion of the air handler 300 thatsurrounds the air handler blower 301. The air intake chamber 303protects the air handler blower 301 and focuses where input air is drawnin from a room to be heated or cooled into the air handler blower 301.In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the air intake chamber 303 includes acasing intake opening 308 on the bottom below the air handler blower301. The casing intake opening 308 limits how main intake air 370 canenter the air intake chamber 303 and thus be provided to the air handlerblower 301. However, this is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments can place one or more casing intake openings along the airintake chamber 303 wherever is desired. Alternate embodiments could evenomit the air intake chamber 303 entirely and leave the air handlerblower 301 open to room that is to be heated or cooled.

The air outflow chamber 306 is connected to the air handler blower 301at the exhaust vent 310 and provides a pathway for exhaust air 390, 395blown by the air handler blower 301 to progress to the remainder of theair handler 300, e.g., a furnace or air-conditioner.

The exhaust vent 310 is connected between the blower wheel 120 and theair outflow chamber 306. In various embodiments the exhaust vent 310 canbe a part of an outer casing 110. As air is blown out of the blowerwheel 120 at the periphery of the blower wheel 120, it is channeled bythe exhaust vent 310 into the outflow chamber 306. Although not shownexplicitly in FIG. 3, an outer casing may be provided around the airhandler blower 301 that channels the air blown out at the periphery ofthe blower wheel 120.

The motor 140 and the axle 150 operate as described above with respectto FIGS. 1 and 2. Specifically, the motor 140 operates to rotate theaxle 150, and the axle 150 operates to rotate the blower wheel 120. Theaxle 150 is connected to the center plate 330 via the axle hole 333 andthe axle securing mechanism 339 such that when the axle 150 rotates thecenter plate 330 rotates and with it the entire blower wheel 120.

The blower wheel 120 is rotated by the motor 140 via the axle 150. As itrotates, the blower wheel 120 draws first and second side intake air373, 376 into the first and second cavities 360, 365, respectively, andblows air out at the periphery of the blower wheel 120.

As noted above, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, the blower wheel 120includes a first blower side 320 that defines the first cavity 360 and asecond blower side 325 that defines the second cavity 365. Each of thefirst and second blower sides 320, 325 includes its own set of blowerblades 340, 345. This is only by way of example, however. Alternateembodiments could use a single set of blower blades that extend acrossthe sides of both the first and second cavities 360, 365.

The plurality of first blower blades 340 are arranged in a circle aroundthe periphery of the center plate 330. They are each attached at a firstend to a first side of the center plate 330 and extend away from thecenter plate 330 in a first direction. The plurality of first blowerblades 340 define the first cavity 360.

The first blower wheel rim 350 is formed in a generally circular shapeand is attached to a second end of each of the plurality of first blowerblades 340. The first blower wheel rim 350 defines an opening thatallows first side intake air 373 into the first cavity 360. Although thefirst blower wheel rim 350 is provided in the embodiment of FIG. 3 toadd stability to the first blower side 320 of the blower wheel 120,alternate embodiments could omit this element.

Each of the plurality of first blower blades 340 is placed such thatthere is space between adjacent blades through which air can flow. Theorientation of the plurality of first blower blades 340 is such thatwhen the blower wheel 120 is rotated by the motor 140, the plurality offirst blower blades 340 will draw air from the first cavity 360 andexpel the air from the first cavity 360 to an area on the periphery ofthe first blower side 320 outside of the circle of the plurality offirst blower blades 340. As the air is drawn from the first cavity 360to the periphery of the first blower side 320, this will reduce thepressure inside the first cavity 360 and draw the first side intake air373 into the first cavity 360 from the intake chamber 303.

The plurality of second blower blades 345 are arranged in a circlearound the periphery of the center plate 330. They are each attached ata first end to a second side of the center plate 330 opposite the firstside and extend away from the center plate 330 in a second directionopposite the first direction. The plurality of second blower blades 345define the second cavity 365.

The second blower wheel rim 355 is formed in a generally circular shapeand is attached to a second end of each of the plurality of secondblower blades 345. The second blower wheel rim 355 defines an openingthat allows second side intake air 376 into the second cavity 365.Although the second blower wheel rim 355 is provided in the embodimentof FIG. 3 to add stability to the second blower side 325 of the blowerwheel 120, alternate embodiments could omit this element.

Each of the plurality of second blower blades 345 is placed such thatthere is space between adjacent blades through which air can flow. Theorientation of the plurality of second blower blades 345 is such thatwhen the blower wheel 120 is rotated by the motor 140, the plurality ofsecond blower blades 345 will draw air from the second cavity 365 andexpel the air from the second cavity 365 to an area on the periphery ofthe second blower side 325 outside of the circle of the plurality ofsecond blower blades 345. As the air is drawn from the second cavity 365to the periphery of the second blower side 325, this will reduce thepressure inside the second cavity 365 and draw the second side intakeair 376 into the second cavity 365 from the intake chamber 303.

As shown in FIG. 3, the motor 140 in this disclosed embodiment isarranged proximate to the opening into the first cavity 360. In fact, inthis disclosed embodiment the motor 140 is arranged to extend partiallyinto the first cavity 360. Because the motor 140 obscures the entranceto the first cavity 360 and nothing obscures the entrance to the secondcavity 365, the first side intake air 373 flowing into the first cavity360 will have a lower air flow than the second side intake air 376flowing into the second cavity 365.

The center plate 330 is a circular plate located between the firstcavity 360 and the second cavity 365 and connected to the first andsecond blower blades 340, 345. It can be generally flat or may haveportions that are not coplanar. For example, the center plate 330 mayhave a portion that extends farther into the first cavity 360 or thesecond cavity 365. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the center plate 330 islocated generally in the middle of the blower wheel 120, roughlybisecting the blower wheel 120 such that the first blower side 320 andthe second blower side 325 are approximately equal in size. However,this is by way of example only. Some embodiments could offset the centerplate 330 in one direction or the other such that the sizes of the firstand second blower sides 320, 325, and therefore the sizes of the firstand second cavities 360, 365, vary.

In some alternate embodiments, the center plate 330 is arranged to makethe first cavity 360 smaller than the second cavity 365. This can bedone to account for the fact that the first side intake air 373 enteringthe first cavity 360 will have a smaller air flow than the second sideintake air 376 entering the second cavity 365 because the motor 140 isarranged to obscure the opening into the first cavity 360.

The axle hole 333 is formed in the center plate 330 where the centerplate 330 intersects the centerline of the blower wheel 120. The axlehole 333 is provided so that the axle 150 can pass through it from thefirst cavity 360 to the second cavity 365 and be secured by the axlesecuring mechanism 339 in the second cavity 365.

The axle securing mechanism 339 is a connector that is configured tosecure the axle 150 to the center plate 330. The axle securing mechanism339 can be formed on either the first or second side of the center plate330 in various embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, axle securingmechanism 339 is formed on the second side of the center plate 330,opposite the first side that faces the motor 140. However, this is byway of example only.

In alternate embodiments the axle hole 333 can be omitted and the axlesecuring mechanism 339 can be configured to attach the axle 150 to thecenter plate 330 without the axle 150 passing through the center plate330.

The center openings 336 are provided in the center plate 330 as conduitsfor air to pass from the first cavity 360 to the second cavity 365 orvice versa. These center openings 336 can vary in shape andconfiguration in different embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, thecenter openings 336 are triangular. However, this is by way of exampleonly.

Although not shown in FIG. 3, one or more of the center openings 336 canhave an air mover associated with them. An air mover is a device thatassists air in passing either from the first cavity 360 to the secondcavity 365 or vice versa. Examples of air movers include air scoops,louvers, fixed blades, or adjustable blades. These air movers mayprotrude into one or both of the first and second cavities 360, 365 andare configured to assist in the moving of the air between the first andsecond cavities 360, 365 when the blower wheel 120 is in motion. Thisassistance can be achieved by physical pressure against the air in oneof the cavities 360, 365 (e.g., by a blade or air scoop pushing the airfrom one cavity to the other), the creation of a low-pressure zone thatwill draw air from one cavity to the other (e.g., by a blade that isplaced to create a low-pressure zone), or by any mechanism that willassist in the movement of air.

The air movers can rely upon the rotation of the blower wheel 120 tofunction or could function independently of the rotation of the blowerwheel 120. Other nonmechanical air movers can be used in differentembodiments.

In operation, the motor 140 will rotate the axle 150, which in turn willrotate the center plate 330 to which it is attached. Since the centerplate 330 is connected to the first and second blower blades 340, 345,this will cause the entire blower wheel 120 to rotate. As the blowerwheel 120 rotates, the first blower blades 340 will draw air from thefirst cavity 360 and expel this air out along the periphery of theblower wheel 120. This expelled air will be directed by the exhaust vent310 and will be provided as first exhaust air 390 into the outflowchamber 306. Likewise, the second blower blades 345 will draw air fromthe second cavity 365 and expel this air out along the periphery of theblower wheel 120. This expelled air will be directed by the exhaust vent310 and will be provided as second exhaust air 395 into the outflowchamber 306.

As air is drawn out of the first cavity 360, this will cause first sideintake air 373 to be drawn from the intake chamber 303 into the firstcavity 360. Likewise, as air is drawn out of the second cavity 365, thiswill cause second side intake air 376 to be drawn from the intakechamber 303 into the second cavity 365. The movement of first and secondside intake air 373, 376 from the intake chamber 303 to the first andsecond cavities, respectively, will further cause main intake air 370 tobe drawn into the intake chamber 303 via the casing intake opening 308at the bottom of the intake chamber 303. In this way, main intake air370 will be drawn in from a room to be heated or cooled through thecasing intake opening 308, and first and second exhaust air 390, 395will be provided in the outflow chamber 306 to be forwarded to an airhandler that will heat or cool the air and provide the treated air backto the room to be heated or cooled.

Because the motor 140 is located in a position that obscures the openingbetween the intake chamber 303 and the first cavity 360, the first sideintake air 373 that enters the first cavity 360 will generally representa lesser flow of air as compared to the second side intake air 376 thatenters the second cavity 365. Without any accommodation, this wouldcause the first exhaust air 390 provided by the first blower side 320 ofthe blower wheel 120 to be reduced as compared to the second exhaust air395 provided by the second blower side 325 of the blower wheel 120. Thiscould cause an undesirable drop in the efficiency of the air handlerblower 301.

The presence of the center openings 336 addresses this potentialimbalance in the exhaust air 390, 395. Since the first side intake air373 is smaller than the second side intake air 376, the air pressure inthe first cavity 360 would generally be lower than the air pressure inthe second cavity 365. In other words, the first cavity 360 will beessentially starved for air as compared to the second cavity 365.However, the imbalance in air pressures between the first and secondcavities 360, 365 will cause transfer air 380 to pass from the secondcavity 365 to the first cavity 360 through the one or more centeropenings 336 to equalize the pressure. By equalizing the air pressurebetween the first and second cavities 360, 365, the air handler blowercan likewise equalize the first and second exhaust air 390, 395. Thiscan keep the efficiency of the air handler blower 301 high.

Furthermore, if air movers are provided with respect to the centeropenings 336, the passage of air from the higher-pressure second cavity365 to the lower-pressure first cavity 360 can the assisted. The airmovers can effectively improve the speed at which the air pressuresbetween the first and second cavities 360, 365 are equalized.

By equalizing the pressures between the first and second cavities 360,365 the efficiency of the air handler blower 301 can be increased. Thisgain in efficiency can take the form of either allowing more air to beblown out as first and second exhaust air 390, 395 for the same powercost, or allowing the same amount of air to be blown out as first andsecond exhaust air 390, 395 at a lower power input.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air handler blower 301 of FIG. 3along line IV-IV′ according to disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG.4, the blower wheel 120 is formed inside an outer casing 110. The blowerwheel 120, and in particular the first blower wheel rim 350, define afirst blower opening 410 that opens into the first cavity 360. The motor140 is arranged such that it partially obscures the first blower opening410. The securing mechanism 170 is arranged on a side of the outercasing 110 where it can secure the air handler blower 301 to the intakechamber 303. Line identifies the cross-section of FIG. 4 shown in FIG.3.

As shown with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4, during operation, air is drawninto the first cavity 360 via the first blower opening 410. This air isthen discharged from the first cavity 360 into the outer casing 110 bythe first blower blades 340 in the blower wheel 120. The outer casing110 directs the discharged air through the exhaust vent 310 andultimately into the outflow chamber 306 as first exhaust air 390.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the air handler blower 301 of FIG. 3along line V-V′ according to disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 5,the blower wheel 120 is formed inside an outer casing 110. Blower wheel120, and in particular the second blower wheel rim 355, define a secondblower opening 510 that opens into the second cavity 365. The securingmechanism 170 is arranged on a side of the outer casing 110 where it cansecure the air handler blower 301 to the intake chamber 303. Line showsthe cross-section shown by FIG. 3.

As shown with respect to FIGS. 3 and 5, during operation, air is drawninto the second cavity 365 the via the second blower opening 510. Thisair is then discharged from the second cavity 365 into the outer casing110 by the second blower blades 345 in the blower wheel 120. The outercasing 110 directs the discharged air through the exhaust vent 310 andultimately into the outflow chamber 306 as second exhaust air 395.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the blower wheel 120 of the air handlerblower 301 of FIG. 3 according to disclosed embodiments. As shown inFIG. 6, the blower wheel 120 is separated into a first blower side 320and a second blower side 325 by a center plate 330.

The first blower side 320 includes a first blower wheel rim 350 and aplurality of first blower blades 340 that extend between a first side ofthe center plate 330 and the first blower wheel rim 350. The firstblower blades 340 are arranged in a circle to define the first cavity360, with space in between the first blower blades 340 such that air canbe expelled from the first cavity 360 to a periphery of the first blowerside 320 when the blower wheel 120 is rotated. The first blower opening410 is defined by the first blower wheel rim 350 and opens into thefirst cavity 360.

The second blower side 325 includes a second blower wheel rim 355 and aplurality of second blower blades 345 that extend between a second sideof the center plate 330 and the second blower wheel rim 355. The secondblower blades 345 are arranged in a circle to define the second cavity365, with space in between the first blower blades 340 such that air canbe expelled from the second cavity 365 to a periphery of the firstblower side 320 when the blower wheel 120 is rotated. Although notexplicitly shown in FIG. 6, the second blower opening 510 is defined bythe second blower wheel rim 355 and opens into the second cavity 365.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an air handler blower 301 in an airhandler 700 with two side air intake openings 708, 709 according todisclosed embodiments. The air handler 700 of FIG. 7 is similar to theair handler 300 of FIG. 3 except that the air handler 700 of FIG. 7 hastwo side casing intake openings 708, 709, while the air handler 300 ofFIG. 3 has a single bottom air intake opening 308.

As shown in FIG. 7, the air handler 700 includes the air handler blower301, an air intake chamber 703, and an outflow chamber 306. The airhandler blower 301 includes an exhaust vent 310, a blower wheel 120, amotor 140, an axle 150, and an axle securing mechanism (i.e., aconnector) 339. The blower wheel 120 includes a first blower side 320, asecond blower side 325, and a center plate 330. The first blower side320 includes a plurality of first blower blades 340 and a first blowerwheel rim 350. The second blower side 325 includes a plurality of secondblower blades 345 and a second blower wheel rim 355. The center plate330 includes an axle hole 333 and one or more center openings 336.

The air handler blower 301 operates as described above with respect toFIG. 3. Specifically, the air handler blower 301 operates to draw airinto the first and second cavities 360, 365 through openings defined bythe first and second blower wheel rims 350, 355, respectively byrotating the blower wheel 120. The air drawn in to the first and secondcavities 360, 365 will then be blown out between gaps in the first andsecond blower blades 340, 345 to a periphery of the blower wheel 120.

Similar to the air intake chamber 303 in the air handler 300 of FIG. 3,the air intake chamber 703 of FIG. 7 is a portion of the air handler 700that surrounds the air handler blower 301. The air intake chamber 703protects the air handler blower 301 and focuses where input air is drawnin from a room to be heated or cooled into the air handler blower 301.However, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the air intake chamber 703includes two casing intake openings: a first casing intake opening 708and a second casing intake opening 709. The first casing intake opening708 is on a first side of the air intake chamber 703 opposite the firstopening 410 into the first cavity 360; and the second casing intakeopening 709 is on a second side of the air intake chamber 703 oppositethe second opening 510 into the second cavity 365.

Thus, first main intake air 760 enters the air intake chamber 703 viathe first casing intake opening 708 and second main intake air 770enters the air intake chamber 703 via the second casing intake opening709. Since nothing obscures the second opening 510 into the secondcavity 365, the second main intake air 770 flows directly into thesecond cavity 365 unimpeded. However, since the motor 140 obscures thefirst opening 410 into the first cavity 360, the first main intake air760 is restricted by the motor 140 into first restricted intake air 763.This first restricted intake air 763 has a lesser air flow than thesecond main intake air 770. As a result, the amount of air flowing intothe first cavity 360 is less than the amount of air flowing into thesecond cavity 365.

As with the embodiment of FIG. 3, the embodiment of FIG. 7 uses thecenter openings 336 in the center plate 330 to allow transfer air 380 tomove air from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity 360 in order toequalize the first and second exhaust air 390, 395. The embodiment ofFIG. 7 discloses the center openings 336 without any additional airmovers and relies upon the difference in air pressure between the firstcavity 360 and the second cavity 365 to facilitate the movement of thetransfer air 380. However, this is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could employ air movers in association with one or more ofthe center openings 336. These air movers can include air scoops,louvers, fixed blades, adjustable blades, or any mechanism to move airbetween the first and second cavities 360, 365.

The air movers can rely upon the rotation of the blower wheel 120 tofunction or could function independently of the rotation of the blowerwheel 120. Other nonmechanical air movers can be used in differentembodiments.

The use of a single casing intake opening on the bottom of the intakechamber 303 in the embodiment of FIG. 3 and the use of two casing intakeopenings 708, 709 opposite the first and second cavities 360, 365 of theblower wheel 120 on the sides of the intake chamber 703 in theembodiment of FIG. 7 are by way of example only. Alternate embodimentscan vary the number of casing intake openings and vary their placementas desired. Alternate embodiments could even omit the air intake chamber303 entirely and leave the air handler blower 301 open to the room.

Although the embodiments of FIG. 3 and FIG. 7 show the motor 140 beingarranged opposite the first cavity 360 and obscuring air entering intothe first cavity 360, this is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could affix the motor 140 opposite the second cavity 365such that it obscures air entering into the second cavity 365. In suchan embodiment, the center openings 336 would allow air to pass from thefirst cavity 360 to the second cavity 365 when the air pressure in thesecond cavity 365 was lower than the air pressure in the first cavity360, as described above.

In some embodiments, the disclosed air handler blower 301 couldconfigures such that its location could be modified during installationor after installation to place the motor 140 on either side of theblower wheel 120. This allows for greater flexibility in theinstallation and operation of the disclosed air handler blower 301.However, regardless of which side of the blower wheel 120 the motor 140is installed or later moved, the blower wheel 1 120 will operate toequalize pressure between the two cavities 360, 365.

To the extent that air movers are used in the center plate 330, theseair movers can either be arranged to function properly regardless of theplacement of the motor 140, or the air movers or general systemparameters can be modified when the motor 140 is installed or moved suchthat the air movers will move air in desired direction.

Center Plate

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a center plate 330 in a blower wheel 120 havingmultiple triangular openings 336 according to disclosed embodiments. Asshown in FIG. 8, the center plate 330 is circular in shape and includesan axle hole 333 and a plurality of center openings 336.

The center plate 330 has a radius substantially equal to the radius ofthe blower wheel and forms a divider between a first blower side 320 ofthe blower wheel 120 and a second blower side 325 of the blower wheel120. The center plate 330 can be made of metal, plastic, or any materialhaving sufficient tensile strength to support the blower wheel 120.

In various embodiments, the center plate 330 can be substantially flator can have portions that are not coplanar. For example, one embodimentmight have a center portion formed at a different level than peripheralportions. In such case, some of the center plate would be slantedbetween the different levels used.

The axle hole 333 is formed in the middle of the center plate 330overlapping a center line of the blower wheel 120. The axle hole 333 isprovided for the axle 150 to pass through and be secured to the centerplate 330. By making the axle hole 333 overlap the centerline of theblower wheel 120, this allows the axle 150 to rotate the center plate330 around its center point, thereby rotating the entire blower wheel120.

Although the embodiments discussed above all include an axle hole 333,this is by way of example only. Alternate embodiments could employ adifferent mechanism for securing the axle 150 to the center plate 330.For example, the first side of the center plate 330 could include asecuring mechanism such as a clamp, or bolts, or the like that allow theaxle 150 to be secured to the center plate 330 without passing throughthe center plate 330 such that it can rotate the center plate 330 aroundits center point.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the center openings 336 are triangular andare formed in a regular pattern surrounding the axle hole 333. Thecenter openings 336 are arranged to be large enough to allow sufficientair to pass from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity 360 duringoperation, but small enough that their presence will not undermine thestructural integrity of the center plate 330. The actual size of thecenter openings 336 can be varied in different embodiments.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the center openings 336 are formed in aregular pattern surrounding the axle hole 333. This regularity inlocation allows for a smoother transition of air between the secondcavity 365 and the first cavity 360. However, this regular arrangementof the center openings 336 is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could have center openings 336 arranged in an irregularpattern or a different regular pattern.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the center openings 336 are all formed tobe of roughly the same size and shape. This regularity in size and shapeallows for a smoother transition of air between the second cavity 365and the first cavity 360. However, the regular size and shape of thecenter openings 336 is by way of example only. Alternate embodimentscould have center openings 336 in the center plate 330 that are ofdifferent sizes and of different shapes. For example, one embodimentcould have a mix of center openings 336 that are triangles, squares,circles and any other shape desired, regular or irregular.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the center plate 330 of FIG. 8 along the lineIX-IX′ according to disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9, theportion of the center plate 330 that is shown is substantially flat andthe center opening 336 is formed in the center plate 330 to allow thepassage of transfer air 380 from one side of the center plate 330 to theother side of the center plate 330.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a center plate 1030 in a blower wheel 120having multiple circular openings 1036 according to disclosedembodiments. As shown in FIG. 10, the center plate 1030 is circular inshape and includes an axle hole 1033 and a plurality of center openings1036.

The center plate 1030 has a radius substantially equal to the radius ofthe blower wheel 120 and forms a divider between a first blower side 320of the blower wheel 120 and a second blower side 325 of the blower wheel120. The center plate 1030 can be made of metal, plastic, or anymaterial having sufficient tensile strength to support the blower wheel120.

In various embodiments, the center plate 1030 can be substantially flator can have portions that are not coplanar. For example, one embodimentmight have a center portion formed at a different level than peripheralportions. In such case, some of the center plate would be slantedbetween the different levels used.

The axle hole 1033 is formed in the middle of the center plate 1030overlapping a center line of the blower wheel 120. The axle hole 1033 isprovided for the axle 150 to pass through and be secured to the centerplate 1030. By making the axle hole 1033 overlap the centerline of theblower wheel 120, this allows the axle 150 to rotate the center plate1030 around its center point, thereby rotating the entire blower wheel120.

Although the embodiments discussed above all include an axle hole 1033,this is by way of example only. Alternate embodiments could employ adifferent mechanism for securing the axle 150 to the center plate 330.For example, the first side of the center plate 1030 could include asecuring mechanism such as a clamp, or bolts, or the like that allow theaxle 150 to be secured to the center plate 1030 such that it can rotatethe center plate 1030 around its center point.

In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the center openings 1036 are circular andare formed in a regular pattern surrounding the axle hole 1033. Thecenter openings 1036 are arranged to be large enough to allow sufficientair to pass from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity 360 duringoperation, but small enough that their presence will not undermine thestructural integrity of the center plate 1030. The actual size of thecenter openings 336 can be varied in different embodiments.

In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the center openings 1036 are formed in aregular pattern surrounding the axle hole 1033. This regularity inlocation allows for a smoother transition of air between the secondcavity 365 and the first cavity 360. However, this regular arrangementof the center openings 1036 is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could have center openings 1036 arranged in an irregularpattern.

In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the center openings 1036 are all formed tobe of roughly the same size and shape. This regularity in size and shapeallows for a smoother transition of air between the second cavity 365and the first cavity 360. However, this regular size and shape of thecenter openings 1036 is by way of example only. Alternate embodimentscould have center openings 1036 in the center plate 1030 that are ofdifferent sizes and of different shapes. For example, one embodimentcould have a mix of center openings 1036 that are triangles, squares,circles and any other shape desired, regular or irregular.

Furthermore, although the embodiment of FIG. 8 shows the use oftriangular center openings 336 and the embodiment of FIG. 10 shows theuse of circular center openings 1036, this is by way of example only.Alternate embodiments could use other shapes. These shapes could beregular or irregular and could be the same or different across thecenter plate 330, 1030.

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a center plate structure in a blower wheel 120having first and second center plates 1130, 1132 connected by spokes1137 according to disclosed embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 11, the first center plate 1130 is a first circularplate with a large center opening 1136. The second center plate 1132 isa second circular plate with an axle hole 1133 formed in it. The secondcenter plate 1132 is arranged inside the large center opening 1136.

The radius of the second center plate 1132 is smaller than the radius ofthe center opening 1136 in the first center plate 1130. As a result,when the second center plate 1132 is placed inside the center opening1136, there will be a gap between the second center plate 1132 and thefirst center plate 1130.

The first center plate 1130 has a radius substantially equal to theradius of the blower wheel 120. Together the first and second centerplates 1130, 1132 form a divider between a first blower side 320 of theblower wheel 120 and a second blower side 325 of the blower wheel 120.The first and second center plates 1130, 1132 can be made of metal,plastic, or any material having sufficient tensile strength to supportthe blower wheel 120.

In order to keep the second center plate 1132 in place, a plurality ofspokes 1137 secure the second center plate 1132 to the first centerplate 1130. Specifically, the plurality of spokes 1137 are arrangedaround a circumference of the second center plate 1132. Each spoke isaffixed to the first center plate 1130 by a first fastener 1138 and isaffixed to the second center plate 1132 by a second fastener 1139. Thespokes 1137 and the first and second fasteners 1138, 1139 should bestrong enough and solidly enough secured that rotation of the secondcenter plate 1132 by the axle 150 can be transferred to the first centerplate 1130 and thereby the rest of the blower wheel 120 withoutdeforming any part of the blower wheel 120.

The axle hole 1133 is formed in the middle of the second center plate1332 overlapping a center line of the blower wheel 120. The axle hole1133 is provided for the axle 150 to pass through and be secured to thesecond center plate 1132. By making the axle hole 1133 overlap thecenterline of the blower wheel 120, this allows the axle 150 to rotatethe second center plate 1332 around its center point, thereby rotatingthe entire blower wheel 120.

Although the embodiments discussed above all include an axle hole 1133,this is by way of example only. Alternate embodiments could employ adifferent mechanism for securing the axle 150 to the second center plate1132. For example, the first side of the second center plate 1132 couldinclude a securing mechanism such as a clamp, or bolts, or the like thatallow the axle 150 to be secured to the second center plate 1132 suchthat it can rotate the second center plate 1132 around its center point.

In the embodiment of FIG. 11, an air opening (or gap) is formed by thegap between the circumference of the center opening 1136 in the firstcenter plate 1130 and the circumference of the second center plate 1132.This air opening is arranged to be large enough to allow sufficient airto pass from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity 360 duringoperation. The actual size of the air opening formed between the firstcenter plate 1130 and the second center plate 1132 can be varied indifferent embodiments.

In the embodiment of FIG. 11, both the center opening 1136 and thesecond center plate 1132 are formed to have a circular shape. However,these circular shapes are by way of example only. Alternate embodimentscould vary the shape of the center opening 1136 and the second centerplate 1132 as desired provided that an air gap was formed between thecircumference of the center opening 1136 and the circumference of thesecond center plate 1132. In various embodiments the second center plate1132 and the center opening 1136 can have either a regular or irregularshape. Furthermore, these two shapes need not be the same shape.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a center plate 1230 in a blower wheel 120having multiple triangular openings 1236 and blades 1234 formed adjacentto each opening 1236 according to disclosed embodiments. As shown inFIG. 12, the center plate 1230 is circular in shape and includes an axlehole 1233 and a plurality of center openings 1236.

The center plate 1230 has a radius substantially equal to the radius ofthe blower wheel 120 and forms a divider between a first lower side 320of the blower wheel 120 and a second blower side 325 of the blower wheel120. The center plate 1230 can be made of metal, plastic, or anymaterial having sufficient tensile strength to support the blower wheel120.

In various embodiments, the center plate 1230 can be substantially flator can have portions that are not coplanar. For example, one embodimentmight have a center portion formed at a different level than peripheralportions. In such case, some of the center plate would be slantedbetween the different levels used.

The axle hole 1233 is formed in the middle of the center plate 1230overlapping a center line of the blower wheel 120. The axle hole 1233 isprovided for the axle 150 to pass through and the secured to the centerplate 1230. By making the axle hole 1233 overlap the centerline of theblower wheel 120, this allows the axle 150 to rotate the center plate1230 around its center point, thereby rotating the entire blower wheel120.

Although the embodiments discussed above all include an axle hole 1233,this is by way of example only. Alternate embodiments could employ adifferent mechanism for securing the axle 150 to the center plate 1230.For example, the first side of the center plate 1230 could include asecuring mechanism such as a clamp, or bolts, or the like that allow theaxle 150 to be secured to the center plate 1230 such that it can rotatethe center plate 1230 around its center point.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the center openings 1236 are triangularand are formed in a regular pattern surrounding the axle hole 1233. Thecenter openings 1236 are arranged to be large enough to allow sufficientair to pass from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity 360 duringoperation, but small enough that their presence will not undermine thestructural integrity of the center plate 1230. The actual size of thecenter openings 1236 can be varied in different embodiments.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the center openings 1236 are formed in aregular pattern surrounding the axle hole 1233. This regularity inlocation allows for a smoother transition of air between the secondcavity 365 and the first cavity 360. However, this regular arrangementof the center openings 1236 is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could have center openings 1236 arranged in an irregularpattern.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the center openings 1236 are all formed tobe of roughly the same size and shape. This regularity in size and shapeallows for a smoother transition of air between the second cavity 365and the first cavity 360. However, this regular size and shape of thecenter openings 1236 is by way of example only. Alternate embodimentscould have center openings 1236 in the center plate 1230 that are ofdifferent sizes and of different shapes. For example, one embodimentcould have a mix of center openings 1236 that are triangles, squares,circles and any other shape desired, regular and irregular.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, each center opening 1236 has a blade 1234formed adjacent to it. These blades 1234 act as air movers to assist themovement of air from one side of the center plate 1230 to the other sideof the center plate 1230. These blades 1234 are provided as an exampleof an air mover. However, different air movers can be used in differentembodiments. For example, some alternate embodiments could use airscoops, louvers, or adjustable blades in place of the fixed blades 1234disclosed in FIG. 12.

For ease of discussion, the blades 1234 will be described as beingconfigured to move air from the second cavity 365 to the first cavity360. However, this is by way of example only. In alternate embodimentsthe blades 1234 could be configured to move air from the first cavity360 to the second cavity 365. In different embodiments the particularconfiguration of the blades 1234 may be reversed if the air flow shouldgo in the opposite direction.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the blades 1234 are triangular in shapeand are roughly the same size and shape as the center openings 1236.Each blade 1234 is affixed on one edge to a side of a correspondingcenter opening 1236 and extends away from the center plate 1230 at anangle between 0 and 90 degrees. In various embodiments the blades 1234can be extended either into the first cavity 360 or into the secondcavity 365. These blades 1234 operate to move air from the second cavity365 into the first cavity 360 when the center plate 1230 rotates.

If the blades 1234 extend into the second cavity 365, then the elevatedend of the blade 1234 will be located in the direction of rotationalmotion of the center plate 1230. In this way, when the center plate 1230rotates, the blade pushes against the air in the second cavity 365 anddeflects the air from the second cavity 365, through the associatedcenter opening 1236, and into the first cavity 360.

If the blades 1234 extend into the first cavity 360, then the elevatedend of the blade 1234 will be located in the direction opposite to thedirection of rotations motion of the center plate 1230. In this way,when the center plate 1230 rotates, the blade 1234 pushes against theair in the first cavity 360 and deflects it away from the associatedcenter opening 1236. This will cause an area of increased negativepressure 1240 rotationally behind the blade 1234 in proximity to theassociated center opening 1236. This area of increased negative pressure1240 will then draw air from the second cavity 365, through theassociated center opening 1236, and into the first cavity 360.

In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the blades 1234 are formed to be roughlythe same size and shape as the center openings 1136. This allows foreasy formation of the blades 1234 and center openings 1236 by startingwith a solid circular plate and cutting out two sides of each centeropening 1236. The plate material that filled each center opening 1236can then be bent away from the center plate 1230 in a relevant directionalong the edge still attached to the center plate 1230. This will bothexpose the center opening 1236 and form the blade 1234 properly angledto move air through the associated center opening 1236 when the centerplate 1230 rotates.

However, having the blades 1234 be roughly the same size and shape asthe center openings 1236 is by way of example only. Alternateembodiments could use blades 1234 that are larger or smaller than theassociated center opening 1236. Alternate embodiments could also useblades 1234 that have a different shape than the associated centeropening 1236.

In addition, although the embodiment of FIG. 12 discloses that eachcenter opening 1236 has a blade 1234 associated with it, this is by wayof example only. In some alternate embodiments only some of the centeropenings 1236 will have blades 1234 associated with them. For example,one alternate embodiment might have every other center opening 1236associated with a blade. Other configurations are possible.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the center plate 1230 of FIG. 12 along lineXII-XII′ in which the blades 1234 are each arranged to push air throughan associated center opening 1236 when the center plate 1230 rotatesaccording to disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 13, the portion ofthe center plate 1230 that is shown is substantially flat and the centeropening 1236 is formed in the center plate 1230 to allow the passage oftransfer air 380 from the second cavity 365 on one side of the centerplate 1230 to the first cavity 360 on the other side of the center plate1230. The blade 1234 is formed to be connected at one edge to a side ofan associated center opening 1236 and at an angle between 0 and 90degrees from the center plate 1230 extending into the second cavity 365.

As the center plate 1230 rotates, the blade 1234 will cut through theair in the second cavity 365, pushing against the air and deflecting itas transfer air 380 through the associated center opening 1236 and intothe first cavity 360. In this way the blade 1234 acts as an air moverassociated with the center opening 1236. The movement of air caused bythe blade 1234 deflecting the transfer air 380 from the second cavity365 into the first cavity 360 is in addition to any movement of transferair 380 caused by the equalizing of air pressure between the first andsecond cavities 360, 365. By having the blades 1234 as air movers, thecenter plate 1230 of FIG. 13 can increase the air flow of the transferair 380 as compared to a center plate without the blades 1234.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the center plate 1230 of FIG. 12 along lineXII-XII′ in which the blades 1234 are arranged to create an area ofincreased negative air pressure 1240 what will draw air through anassociated center opening 1236 when the center plate 1230 rotatesaccording to disclosed embodiments. As shown in FIG. 14, the portion ofthe center plate 1230 that is shown is substantially flat and the centeropening 1236 is formed in the center plate 1230 to allow the passage oftransfer air 380 from the second cavity 365 on one side of the centerplate 1230 to the first cavity 360 on the other side of the center plate1230. The blade 1234 is formed to be connected at one edge to a side ofan associated center opening 1236 and at an angle between 0 and 90degrees from the center plate 1230 extending into the first cavity 360.

As the center plate 1230 rotates, the blade 1234 will push against theair in the first cavity 360, deflecting it away from the associatedcenter opening 1236 and causing an area of increased negative airpressure 1240 rotationally behind the blade 1234 and in proximity to theassociated center opening 1236. Even if the air in the first cavity 360already has a lower air pressure than the air in the second cavity 365the air pressure rotationally behind the blade 1234 will be even lowercausing the transfer air 380 to be drawn from the second cavity 365 tothe first cavity 360. The operation of the blade 1234 will thereforeincrease the speed at which transfer air 380 will be drawn from thesecond cavity 365 to the first cavity 360. In this way the blade 1234acts as an air mover associated with the center opening 1236. Themovement of air caused by the blade 1234 creating area of reducednegative air pressure 1240 is in addition to any movement of transferair 380 caused by the equalizing of air pressure between the first andsecond cavities 360, 365. By having the blades 1234 as air movers, thecenter plate 1230 of FIG. 13 can increase the air flow of the transferair 380 as compared to a center plate without the blades 1234.

Operation of an Air Handler Blower

FIG. 15 is a flow chart 1500 showing the operation of an air handlerblower according to disclosed embodiments. In this embodiment, the airhandler blower includes a blower wheel. The blower wheel is a hollowcylinder with a first blower side having a first cavity and a secondblower side having a second cavity. The first cavity is defined by afirst cylindrical blade assembly and the second cavity is defined by asecond cylindrical blade assembly. The first blower side and the secondblower side are divided by a center plate that has one or more centeropenings in it that facilitate the flow of air between the first cavityand the second cavity.

As shown in FIG. 15, operation begins when the blower wheel is rotated(1510).

The rotation of the blower wheel will cause first intake air to be drawninto the first cavity (1520) and second intake air to be drawn into thesecond cavity (1530). In this embodiment, the first intake air will havea greater airflow than the second intake air.

A portion of the second intake air will be passed from the second cavityto the first cavity to generate first increased intake air in the firstcavity and second decreased intake air in the second cavity (1540). Thispassing of the second intake air from the second cavity to the firstcavity can be performed by passing air through the one or more centeropenings in the center plate. This operation can be assisted by theoperation of air movers.

The first increased intake air is then moved from the first cavity to anouter circumference of the first cylindrical blade assembly as firstexhaust air (1550). This can be done by having the first cylindricalblade assembly draw the first increased intake air out of the firstcavity and passing it to the circumference of the first cylindricalblade assembly as the first exhaust air.

The second decreased intake air is then moved from the second cavity toan outer circumference of the second cylindrical blade assembly assecond exhaust air (1560). This can be done by having the secondcylindrical blade assembly draw the second decreased intake air out ofthe second cavity and passing it to the circumference of the secondcylindrical blade assembly as the second exhaust air.

Finally, the first exhaust air and the second exhaust air are combinedto form combined exhaust air (1570). This final exhaust air can beprovided to an air handler for heating or cooling.

In some circumstances, the second intake air may have a greater airflowthan the second intake air. For example, this may happen if an openinginto the first cavity is obscured by a motor that is used to rotate theblower wheel. Without correction, this could cause the first exhaust airto be reduced by a greater amount than the second exhaust air would beincreased, thereby reducing the general efficiency of the air handlerblower.

However, by passing a portion of the second intake air from the secondcavity to the first cavity, this operation can be fully or partiallycloser in airflow to the equalize the first and second intake air,making the first increased intake air roughly comparable to the seconddecreased intake air. As a result, the first and second exhaust air willbe roughly comparable in air flow, maintaining a high efficiency for theair handler blower.

CONCLUSION

This disclosure is intended to explain how to fashion and use variousembodiments in accordance with the invention rather than to limit thetrue, intended, and fair scope and spirit thereof. The foregoingdescription is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventionto the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possiblein light of the above teachings. The embodiment(s) was chosen anddescribed to provide the best illustration of the principles of theinvention and its practical application, and to enable one of ordinaryskill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments andwith various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scopeof the invention as determined by the appended claims, as may be amendedduring the pendency of this application for patent, and all equivalentsthereof, when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which theyare fairly, legally, and equitably entitled. The various circuitsdescribed above can be implemented in discrete circuits or integratedcircuits, as desired by implementation.

What is claimed:
 1. An air handler blower, comprising: a blower wheelhaving a center plate having one or more center openings, a firstcylindrical blade assembly extending from a first side of the centerplate, the first cylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality offirst blades extending from the first side of the center plate andarranged in a circle to define a first cavity, the plurality of firstblades each attached by a first end to the first side of the centerplate, and a second cylindrical blade assembly extending from a secondside of the center plate opposite the first side, the second cylindricalblade assembly containing a plurality of second blades extending fromthe second side of the center plate and arranged in a circle to define asecond cavity, the plurality of second blades each attached by a firstend to the second side of the center plate; a motor located proximate tothe first cylindrical blade assembly and configured to rotate the blowerwheel; and an axle connecting the motor and the center plate.
 2. The airhandler blower of claim 1, wherein the first blade cylinder has a firstwidth extending from the first side of the center plate, the secondblade cylinder has a second width extending from the second side of thecenter plate, and the first width is substantially equal to the secondwidth.
 3. The air handler blower of claim 1, wherein the plurality offirst blades are arranged such that the first cylindrical blade assemblywill draw first intake air into the first cavity and generate firstexhaust air at an outer circumference of the first cylindrical bladeassembly when the blower wheel is rotated, and the plurality of secondblades are arranged such that the second cylindrical blade assembly willdraw second intake air into the second cavity and generate secondexhaust air at an outer circumference of the second cylindrical bladeassembly when the blower wheel is rotated.
 4. The air handler blower ofclaim 1, wherein the motor partly obscures the first blower opening. 5.The air handler blower of claim 4, wherein the center plate furtherincludes one or more air movers configured to draw air from the secondcavity into the first cavity.
 6. The air handler blower of claim 5,wherein the air movers include one of an air scoop, a louver, a fixedblade, or an adjustable blade.
 7. The air handler blower of claim 5,wherein the air movers protrude into the second cavity.
 8. The airhandler blower of claim 4, wherein the center plate further includes oneor more third blades configured to draw air from the second cavity intothe first cavity, each of the one or more third blades being associatedwith a corresponding one of the center openings, and the one or morethird blades are noncoplanar with respect to the center plate.
 9. Theair handler blower of claim 8, wherein each of the center openings has acorresponding inner circumference, each of the one or more third bladeshas a substantially same shape as a corresponding one of the centeropenings, and each of the one or more third blades is connected to aportion of the circumference of a corresponding one of the centeropenings.
 10. The air handler blower of claim 1, wherein the centerplate further includes an outer plate having an inner opening with afirst circumference, an inner plate having a second circumference formedin the inner opening, and a plurality of spokes connecting the outerplate to the inner plate, wherein the second circumference is smallerthan the first circumference, and the one or more openings include amain opening between the first circumference and the secondcircumference.
 11. The air handler blower of claim 1, further comprisingan outer casing surrounding the blower wheel and containing an exhaustopening, the outer casing being configured to combine the first andsecond exhaust air into combined exhaust air and to expel the combinedexhaust air through the exhaust opening.
 12. A heating, ventilation andair-conditioning device comprising: the air handler blower of claim 1,and an air-conditioner configured to condition the combined exhaust air.13. An air handler blower, comprising: a blower wheel having a centerplate having one or more center openings, and one or more air movementmechanisms configured to draw air from the second cavity into the firstcavity, a first cylindrical blade assembly extending from a first sideof the center plate, the first cylindrical blade assembly containing aplurality of first blades extending from the first side of the centerplate and arranged in a circle to define a first cavity, the pluralityof first blades each attached by a first end to the first side of thecenter plate, and a second cylindrical blade assembly extending from asecond side of the center plate opposite the first side, the secondcylindrical blade assembly containing a plurality of second bladesextending from the second side of the center plate and arranged in acircle to define a second cavity, the plurality of second blades eachattached by a first end to the second side of the center plate; a motorlocated proximate to the first cylindrical blade assembly and configuredto rotate the blower wheel; and an axle connecting the motor and thecenter plate.
 14. The air handler blower of claim 13, wherein the airmovement mechanisms include one of an air scoop, a louver, a fixedblade, or an adjustable blade.
 15. The air handler blower of claim 13,wherein the air movement mechanisms protrude into the second cavity. 16.The air handler blower of claim 13, wherein the air movement mechanismsinclude one or more third blades configured to draw air from the secondcavity into the first cavity, each of the one or more third blades beingassociated with a corresponding one of the center openings, the one ormore third blades are noncoplanar with respect to the center plate. 17.A method of operating an air handler blower having a blower wheel with acenter plate a first cylindrical blade assembly attached to a first sideof the center plate, and a second cylindrical blade assembly attached toa first side of the center plate, comprising: rotating the blower wheel;drawing first intake air into a first cavity defined by the firstcylindrical blade assembly at a first air pressure; drawing secondintake air into a second cavity defined by the second cylindrical bladeassembly at a second air pressure greater than the first air pressure;passing a portion of the second intake air from the second cavity to thefirst cavity through openings in the center plate to create secondreduced intake air in the second cavity and first increased intake airin the first cavity; moving the first increased intake air from thefirst cavity to an outer circumference of the first cylindrical bladeassembly as first exhaust air; moving the second decreased intake airfrom the second cavity to an outer circumference of the secondcylindrical blade assembly as second exhaust air; and combining thefirst exhaust air and the second exhaust air to form combined exhaustair.
 18. The method of operating the air handler blower of claim 17,wherein the passing of the portion of the second intake air from thefirst cavity to the second cavity through openings in the center plateis performed at least in part by equalizing the first pressure and thesecond pressure.
 19. The method of operating the air handler blower ofclaim 17, wherein the passing of the portion of the second intake airfrom the first cavity to the second cavity through openings in thecenter plate is performed at least in part by forcing a portion of thesecond intake air from the second cavity into the first cavity using oneor more air movers attached to the center plate.
 20. The method ofoperating the air handler blower of claim 19, wherein the air moversinclude one of an air scoop, a louver, a fixed blade, or an adjustableblade.